SLT 1240
November 25 – December 1, 2023
SOUTHERN LEYTE – People are now carefully monitoring the weather condition, especially when clouds become heavy with rain. The horrible Typhoon Odette experience on December 16, 2021 left a traumatic imprint on Southern Leyteños.
Classes in all levels in Southern Leyte were suspended on November 16, Thursday, due to the bad weather caused by a low pressure area.
On November 20, 2023 there were landslides and rockslides blocking main roads in the midst of intermittent rain downpour in places like the municipalities of Bontoc and Liloan.
During the third week of November the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council has been issuing warning announcements at mobile phones about the weather using color coding crafted by the Philippine Atmospheric,
Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The PAGASA issued Red, Orange, and Yellow warnings, indicating the levels of caution for residents and local authorities. The darker the color, the more prone a place to danger and flooding. A Red Warning is the highest warning; severe flooding is expected and the public, especially near low-lying areas and near rivers, and people are expected to seek higher ground or evacuate. An Orange Warning indicates that preparation for possible evacuation is necessary, while Yellow Warning signifies that residents should be aware of the prevailing weather conditions.
As our province grapples with the persisting cloudy weather and occasional heavy rains, by staying informed, adhering to safety guidelines, and actively participating in community initiatives, residents can contribute to creating a resilient and well-prepared community in the face of unpredictable weather patterns.
Officials are asked to update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days as sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas; especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; and some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations. (DY)
